TONETONE The feeling of the work

ToneTone The writer’s or speaker’s attitude toward the subject, the audience, or herself/himself The emotional coloring or emotional meaning of a work

Tone in Writing… We must look at the clues the author gives us in the text to determine the tone of the piece. Here are some aspects of the literature to look to for clues:We must look at the clues the author gives us in the text to determine the tone of the piece. Here are some aspects of the literature to look to for clues: MoodMood CharacterizationCharacterization ThemeTheme Word ChoiceWord Choice FormForm

Tone in Informational Text: Look for clues of tone in informational text in these:Look for clues of tone in informational text in these: FormForm PurposePurpose Word ChoiceWord Choice Author’s claimAuthor’s claim

In speech, it is indicated by the inflections of the speaker’s voice. In speech, it is indicated by the inflections of the speaker’s voice. If, for instance, a friend tells you, “I’m going to get married today,” the facts of the statements are entirely clear. But the emotional meaning may vary widely according to the tone of voice with which it is uttered. The tone may be ecstatic (“Hooray, I’m getting married today!”); it may be incredulous (“I can’t believe it. I’m getting married today”); it may be despairing (“Horrors! I’m getting married today”).

Obviously, a correct determination of tone will be an important part of understanding the full meaning. It may even have rather important consequences. For example: If someone calls you a fool, your interpretation of the tone may determine whether you take it as an insult or as playful banter.